Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

Overview

Journey along Edinburgh's Royal Mile hearing some of Edinburgh's darker history before visiting the infamous hidden and supposedly haunted vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults by candlelight, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike, said by some to now be occupied by a few of the spirits of these inhabitants long since dead. Each vault has stories of crime, disease, death and lots more... with which your guide shall enlighten you in all the gory details! You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by a Wiccan coven and you will enter their former temple. Join us to learn why it is no longer safe for them to practice their craft in that vault. DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle?

Activity itinerary

The infamous vaults hidden under the South Bridge in Edinburgh Old Town fill the nineteen stone arches of this underground architectural wonder. Join our knowledgeable guide to hear why the vaults were built and why they were eventually abandoned... Hear tales of how the homeless and destitute community of Edinburgh sought refuge in these former slums. What was it really like to live in the darkness? Who were the criminals that stalked the vaults and what did they want? Explore the candlelit Niddry's Wynd, forgotten on today's maps, with your costumed guide. The tour commences at the Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town. Learn what the town was like in the 1700s, what diseases were feared by the overcrowded population, and what happened to the household waste? You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and you will enter their former temple. You are advised to listen to the guide carefully BEFORE making a decision to step inside the haunted stone circle! Finally we invite you to experience the eerie atmosphere of the Haunted Vault itself, home to the majority of our many reported sightings... will you be brave enough to enter? Photographs are recommended, you may even discover something ghostly on them! Please do get in touch with us after the tour to share your experiences with us...

How to use your ticket

Meet at the Red Telephone box and Tourist Information ticket booth outside of 300 Lawnmarket, EH1 2PH. This is on the opposite side of the road to Deacon Brodies Tavern. Please be 5-10 minutes early as tours will always depart on time.

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• not suitable for children under 5 years of age, children under 2 years of age are not allowed on tour.
• Entrance/Exit to the vaults is via a 2 foot tall step followed by single flight spiral staircase.
• Mezzanine staircases of 5-7 steps inside vaults between levels.
• Alcohol/Drugs are strictly forbidden and anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be turned away.
• Non-service animals are not allowed.
• • Some historical content may be of a distressing nature with regards but not exclusively to Torture, Hangings, Death
• The walking pace and terrain may not be suitable for those with any difficulty walking.
• We do not have any luggage storage so please make alternate arrangements.
• No toilet stops or toilets available during tour.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather.

Reviews

Product code: 8752P1

Activity offered by Auld Reekie Tours Ltd via Viator.